What’s next for the Class of 2026: Skyler Chang

“What’s next for the Class of 2026” is a series that features Lafayette grads—where they’re headed, and the mentors, resources, and experiences that inspired their future path. Stay tuned for more stories throughout April and May.

(Photo | JaQuan Alston)

Major/minor:

Dual major in physics and mathematics

Destination/future plans: 

Headed to UC San Diego to work toward a graduate degree in material science engineering.

Involvement on campus:

During his time at Lafayette, Skyler Chang ’26 worked on LaFarm (2022-24) and volunteered with the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) club (2022-23).

In 2023-24, he conducted EXCEL research alongside Prof. Paul Stonaha, visiting assistant professor, physics. Their work involved running particle physics simulations using Geant4 software to study neutron scatterings and detections. 

He also pursued a one-year research project (2025-26) with Heidi Hendrickson, associate professor of chemistry, for his thesis that turned into an independent study. The research focused on quantum-computing algorithms applied to molecular dynamic simulations to see if the algorithms could bring computational advantages for studying molecular geometry.

The experiences that mattered most:

Studying at a liberal arts college offered the chance to explore. Talking to professors in different departments helped Chang decide what his path was, especially after switching his major from psychology to physics.

“Taking the opportunity to explore classes from different departments helped me decide what I wanted to do,” Chang says.

In addition to inspirational physics classes, he appreciated the opportunity to venture outside his core classes. Organic chemistry offered a chance to see skills put to practice in a laboratory, while music theory was enlightening.

How Lafayette shaped your future:

Chang says the opportunity to build close connections with professors was a big plus. It allowed him the chance to envision what a future as a researcher could be. Through his research experiences he also learned about himself as a student, the value of working alongside skilled professors, and the importance of networking.

Why Lafayette?

Chang says Lafayette offered him “freedom to explore and try out so many different things.” 

Growing up in a large city like Beijing, coming to Lafayette offered a welcome change. 

“Coming here was a change of scene, and one that I will miss in the future.”

The people who inspired you along the way:

Chang is especially grateful for the chance to work alongside Hendrickson on his thesis and independent study. She was particularly good at pointing out other aspects of how to have a successful academic career, he says. 

From Hendrickson he learned how to communicate with people from different institutions, build connections, and manage his workload.

“It made me realize that to pursue a successful academic career one not only needs to perform academically or know things intellectually, but rather you need to learn how to handle yourself as well,” Chang says. “That’s something that will stick with me for a very long time.”

Advice for future Leopards:

To the next group of Leopards headed to Lafayette, Chang encourages them to explore. 

“Everything will work out in the end.”